Lake Varuna (Lakelands Drive) is a man-made reservoir located in Montgomery, Maryland, with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1992, the earth dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet, serving as a vital component in managing the Muddy Branch-TR watershed. The dam's spillway, with a width of 5 feet, is uncontrolled, ensuring the safe release of excess water during periods of high flow.
With a surface area of 1.5 acres and a drainage area of 0.48 square miles, Lake Varuna plays a crucial role in supporting fish and wildlife habitats in addition to its flood control function. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of August 2016, the dam undergoes regular inspections every 5 years to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness. Managed by local government authorities, Lake Varuna demonstrates how infrastructure can serve multiple purposes, blending environmental conservation with flood risk management in a sustainable manner.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts will appreciate Lake Varuna's contribution to the local ecosystem and its role in mitigating flood risks in the region. As part of the broader network of dams and reservoirs managed by Maryland Dam Safety, Lake Varuna exemplifies the importance of proactive risk management and infrastructure maintenance in safeguarding communities and natural resources against the impacts of changing climate patterns. Whether observing wildlife, studying hydrological dynamics, or analyzing risk assessments, Lake Varuna offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
Muddy Branch-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.48 |
Nid Storage |
62 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |